What is the role of internet in international trade?

Many online auction websites such as eBay are now providing wholesalers through a wholesale list, generally, the lists that require a fee to view, may not be updated frequently, the data may be old, and the companies listed may no longer be in business.

Another form of online middleman is B2B trade companies like Alibaba.com. These cater mainly to big businesses who are importing large quantities of goods from foreign countries. They also have sister sites that serve smaller orders for small businesses, like Alibaba.com.

In addressing the concerns of listed companies' legitimacy and dependability, such B2B portals may inspect suppliers at their actual premises before they list suppliers. The "gold suppliers" system of Alibaba.com is one such example.Imports is having cargo and clearance.

Alternatively, these companies may also branch out of cyberspace and organize their own Sourcing Fairs, where thousands of buyers and suppliers can meet face-to-face. Two examples are Cantonfair and China Sourcing Fairs.

Source: Alibaba